Bertha Emma Phillips of Central, SC died on Monday Oct. 4th, 2021. Born in Newberry, Bertha was the daughter of the late Benjamin Henry Phillips and Florine Lollis Phillips. Bertha was a person of deep faith who loved her children and made family a priority. She had a kind heart and a generous spirit. She found ways to quietly bring comfort and healing in her interactions with others. As a high school guidance counselor, her profession also was a platform to help and encourage others. Bertha found beauty in the world around her, enjoying flowers, gardens, and birds. She is survived by her children, Brab Crooks of Greenwood, SC and Heather Crooks of Central, SC; her grandchildren, Sam and Hannah Crooks of Greenwood, SC; her brother, Benjamin Henry Phillips, Jr. and his wife Shelby of Greer, SC; her sister-in-law Debbie Phillips of Greer, SC; a nephew and several nieces. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, C. Eugene Phillips. A private family service was held at Newberry Memorial Gardens under the direction of the Rev. Benjamin Henry Phillips, III. In lieu of flowers, a contribution can be made to the South Carolina Botanical Gardens, P.O. Box 1889, Clemson, SC 29633. A beautiful teak bench will be placed on the grounds of the gardens in Bertha's memory to provide a peaceful place to visit and celebrate her life. Please include a notation with your gift that designates it is for the "Bertha Phillips Memorial Fund." Those who make a donation will be notified of the date of the dedication once it is scheduled by the Botanical Gardens. Memories and condolences can be shared with the family here on her Tribute Wall. Whitaker Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.